President Nayib Bukele announced Tuesday that the Pacific Airport, located in La Unión, will begin operations in the second half of 2027. The new terminal will feature a 2,400-meter runway and direct Avianca flights from the United States.
“The Pacific Airport will start operations in two and a half years, accommodating airlines like Avianca and Volaris, cargo planes, and humanitarian aid,” Bukele stated during the groundbreaking ceremony.
The $386 million project will be developed in three phases. Phase one, currently under construction with a $320 million budget, is funded by the Development Bank of Latin America, with contributions from Spain and El Salvador. It includes two boarding gates and aims to handle 300,000 passengers and 2,000 flights annually.
Phase two will add a larger terminal, with the initial terminal serving private flights. In phase three, the runway will expand to 3,000 meters, with 18 total boarding gates. The fully completed airport is expected to handle five million passengers per year.
Bukele emphasized the economic impact, estimating $300 million annually from international passengers in the first year. The project is projected to create over 10,000 jobs during construction and contribute a 1.5% annual GDP increase.
“This airport is more than just a terminal—it’s a gateway to development and investment in eastern El Salvador,” Bukele said. The facility will meet international aviation standards and feature sustainable design, including reforestation, air quality monitoring, and wildlife protection measures.